Hinged MTP Fusion Guide for Precise Non-Intersecting Fastener Placement
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Solution Overview
Problem
In minimally-invasive MTP joint fusion procedures, it is difficult to gain sufficient access to the joint, maintain exact bone positioning, and repeatably place fixation fasteners without intersection, using conventional manual techniques.
Innovation Solution
A system with a hinged guide, radiopaque indicators, converging bone anchoring wires, linear distraction and compression, selectable dorsiflexion, adjustable varus-valgus, and multiple trajectory options for implant fasteners, allowing precise and non-intersecting placement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual techniques are used for gaining phalanx-metatarsal distraction and placing fixation fasteners, then the procedure can be performed with simple tools, but the placement accuracy and repeatability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
A guiding instrument is introduced as an intermediary tool between the surgeon and the bone structure. This guide provides a physical framework that defines the exact trajectory and depth for fastener placement, enabling precise and repeatable results while maintaining ease of operation through a user-friendly design
Solution Approach 2:
Manual mechanical techniques are replaced with a mechanical guiding system that uses a hinged guide structure with adjustable components. This substitution allows for more precise control of fastener placement trajectories while maintaining operational simplicity through intuitive mechanical adjustments
2Device complexity
If conventional manual techniques are used for fastener placement, then the device complexity is low, but the reliability of repeatable placement across multiple procedures deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The guiding instrument is divided into multiple functional segments: a hinged guide for positioning, a trajectory guide for defining fastener paths, and adjustable components for customization. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function reliably while keeping the overall design manageable in complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The guide incorporates dynamic, adjustable elements that can be modified during the procedure to accommodate different anatomical variations. The hinged guide can be adjusted to different angles and positions, allowing the same device to reliably guide fasteners in multiple procedures with varying patient anatomies
3Ease of operation
If multiple fixation fasteners are placed manually, then the procedure is straightforward, but the risk of fastener intersection increases
Solution Approach 1:
The trajectory guide acts as an intermediary that visually and physically defines safe fastener trajectories. By projecting the exact path of each fastener onto the bone surface, the guide ensures that multiple fasteners are placed at different angles and positions, eliminating intersection risks while maintaining ease of operation
Solution Approach 2:
The guiding instrument provides real-time visual feedback through radiopaque indicators and trajectory projections. This feedback allows the surgeon to confirm that each fastener is being placed along the correct trajectory, preventing intersection with other fasteners while keeping the procedure straightforward
Data Source
AI summary
A system for metatarsal phalangeal joint fusion includes a hinged guide; a trajectory guide attachable to the hinged guide; and an anchoring wire to attach the hinged guide to a bone.